Programme Overview
This immersive Programme invites students to delve into the heart of Ghanaian culture through the vibrant lens of its traditional dance and drumming. Students will not only master foundational movement techniques from diverse Ghanaian styles but also uncover the rich historical and cultural contexts that give these expressions meaning. Throughout the Programme , students will not only gain technical proficiency but also cultivate creativity, self-expression, and a sense of community through shared movement and rhythm.
Programme Objective
The Programme will provide participants with the ability to:
- Master basic dance movements from key Ghanaian styles, including Adowa, Agbadza, Kete, and Kpanlogo, with precision and stylistic nuance.
- Comprehend the cultural and historical significance of these dances, exploring their roles in Ghanaian society, rituals, and storytelling.
- Analyze the unique rhythmic language of Ghanaian drumming, understanding its connection to movement and cultural meaning.
- Utilize your knowledge of traditional forms to conceptually and physically articulate original choreography inspired by Ghanaian dance and drumming.
- Express your individual creative voice through the expressive language of Ghanaian movement and rhythm.
- Develop a deeper appreciation for Ghanaian culture and its enduring artistic traditions.
Programme Content (Schedule)
The Programme unfolds progressively, building upon and refining participants’ skills and knowledge:
Module 1: Session 1
- Introduction to Ghanaian Dance & Drumming: Explore the diverse landscapes of Ghanaian dance styles, drumming traditions, and their interconnectedness.
- Foundational Movement & Drumming Techniques: Master core elements like polyrhythms, footwork, body isolations, and basic drumming patterns.
- Celebrating Ancestral Roots: Examine dances like Adowa and Kete, understanding their significance in honoring ancestors and connecting with lineage.
Module 2: Session 3
- Rhythm is King: Analyze the intricate patterns and variations of Ghanaian drumming, learning to identify and interpret their messages and cultural associations.
- Vibrant Rituals & Celebration: Delve into dances like Agbadza and Kpanlogo, exploring their roles in festivals, communal gatherings, and storytelling.
- Creative Exploration & Collaboration: Experiment with improvisation and composition, incorporating traditional movements and rhythms into your own artistic expression.
Module 3: Session 3
- From Tradition to Innovation: Apply your knowledge of traditional forms to create contemporary choreography inspired by Ghanaian dance and drumming.
- Drumming Accompaniment & Collaboration: Collaborate with fellow students to develop and integrate live drumming accompaniment into your original choreography.
- Feedback & Growth: Receive constructive feedback from instructors and peers to refine your choreography and drumming collaboration.
Module 4: Session 4
- Culminating Performances: Showcase your creative journeys in final performances, combining your original choreography with live drumming in a celebration of Ghanaian artistic traditions.
- Reflecting & Sharing: Reflect on your learning experiences, share insights and discoveries, and discuss the future of Ghanaian dance and drumming in a rapidly changing world.
Who Should Attend?
The programme is suitable for a wide range of professionals but will be specifically beneficial to:
- All participants who want to know more about Africa Contemporary Dance
- Foreign students who want an exchange programme in Ghana
Registration
Click HERE to register
Facilitator
Mr. Nii Tete Yartey